Jumping the Hurdles of Mental Health Care Wearing Cement Shoes: Where Does the Inpatient Psychiatric Nurse Fit in?

Abstract

Are inpatient psychiatric nurses stagnant in their practice? Delaney’s (2002) article on the topic might lead to the assumption that inpatient psychiatric nursing personnel have no foundation for practice. This article elaborates on the skills and knowledge that inpatient nurses have and the circumstances under which those skills are performed and knowledge applied. Although the ability to articulate a framework for practice varies, this is not equivalent to stagnation of practice or neglect of care. Based on their educational backgrounds, inpatient psychiatric nurses use various approaches and knowledge for care. Inpatient psychiatric nursing is relevant and dynamic.